Outcome and Risk Factors Presented in Old Patients Above 80 Years of Age Versus Younger Patients After Ischemic Stroke

Background Older patients are associated with increased stroke prevalence, worse outcome, and risk of undertreatment in comparison with younger patients. The aim of the present study was to compare risk factor distribution and functional outcome in stroke survivors older and younger than 80 years. Methods The analysis was based on consecutive patients admitted within 6 hours after stroke onset and discharged with ischemic stroke, surviving at least 3 months after ictus. To prevent bias, the analysis was based on a registry from before implementation of tissue plasminogen activator treatment; all patients received stroke unit care in accordance with the guidelines. The population was dichotomized into patients aged less than 80 years and 80 years of age or older. Modified Rankin Scale (mRS) score and Barthel Index (BI) were used to assess 3-month and 1-year outcome. Results Patients 80 years of age or older presented with significantly more severe strokes than younger patients, median Scandinavian Stroke Scale score 39 vs 42 ( P = .003). Median mRS score before stroke was significantly higher in patients aged 80 years or older ( P